Search
Better Farming OntarioBetter PorkBetter Farming Prairies

Better Farming Ontario Featured Articles

Better Farming Ontario magazine is published 11 times per year. After each edition is published, we share featured articles online.


Food costs and income are relative

Thursday, May 2, 2013

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, citizens of Cameroon, a state in Central Africa, spend $9 per household on food and drink every week. Compared to the United States, where food costs $43, it sounds look a good deal. But the $9 amounts to 47 per cent of a Cameroonian's weekly income compared to eight per cent of an American's.

High percentage of income expenditures on food and drink in the developing world aren't a surprise to most in North America. More of a surprise might be the less-than-enviable spending by residents of Belarus. Residents of the former Soviet Republic spend $26 a week, 42 per cent of their income. Economic growth and population are going backwards.

Compare that to India, where food costs are $5/day/household and 27 per cent of income.  Neighbouring Pakistan is $7 a day, and 43 per cent of income on food.  

A chart, published on the website of Britain's The Economist, shows that country and the United States tied for spending per person per week on food at $43. The difference is that the food and beverage spending in Britain is about 13 per cent of income, while it is eight per cent of an American's income. Canada isn't among the 22 countries on the chart. Hard to say if the Brits consider us a colony or the 51st state. BF

Current Issue

April 2026

Better Farming Magazine

Farms.com Breaking News

Ontario Equine Industry Drives Rural Economy

Monday, March 16, 2026

A new economic study has revealed the major contribution of Ontario’s equine agricultural sector to the province’s economy and rural communities. The Ontario Equine Agricultural Economic Impact Study Report provides the first comprehensive evaluation of the industry since 2010 and offers... Read this article online

Julia Montgomery Named OVC Dean

Monday, March 16, 2026

The University of Guelph has announced the appointment of Dr. Julia Montgomery as the new dean of the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC).She will begin her five-year leadership term on June 15, 2026.The appointment marks an important step for one of Canada’s most respected veterinary... Read this article online

Canada Seeks Agriculture Champions for Hall of Fame

Sunday, March 15, 2026

The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Association is inviting nominations for individuals who have made lasting and meaningful contributions to the agriculture and food industry in Canada. The organization is seeking candidates for the 2026 class of inductees, with nominations accepted... Read this article online

BF logo

It's farming. And it's better.

 

a Farms.com Company

Subscriptions

Subscriber inquiries, change of address, or USA and international orders, please email: subscriptions@betterfarming.com or call 888-248-4893 x 281.


Article Ideas & Media Releases

Have a story idea or media release? If you want coverage of an ag issue, trend, or company news, please email us.

Follow us on Social Media

 

Sign up to a Farms.com Newsletter

 

DisclaimerPrivacy Policy2026 ©AgMedia Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Back To Top